SAG-AFTRA Reports Results of Groundbreaking LGBT Study

Lessbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) actors face continued discrimination, even as workplace opportunities and conditions improve, according to a first-of-its kind report by SAG-AFTRA and UCLA’s Williams Institute. The report, titled, Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Diversity in Entertainment: Experiences and Perspectives of SAG-AFTRA Members, found one-third of all survey respondents believed that casting directors, directors and producers may be biased against LGBT performers, and more than half of LGB performers had heard anti-gay comments on set. While the study shows industry discrimination, respondents’ opinions indicate that SAG-AFTRA members provide a supportive environment for LGBT performers, and many lesbian and gay respondents said they would encourage others to come out.

“We were pleased to see that our membership is overwhelmingly supportive of LGBT actors, and that many LGBT actors found benefits in coming out,” said Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, SAG-AFTRA’s chief administrative officer and general counsel. “Nonetheless, coming out remains a significant and consequential decision for many performers and we are committed to supporting our members in living honest and authentic personal and professional lives.”

The report was presented at a press conference during the inaugural SAG-AFTRA National Convention in Los Angeles on Sept. 27. For more, click here.